Train delay compensationtrain companies could face penalties for services that are just one single minute late in the bid to boost frequent delays across the rail network.

Executives from the Rail Delivery Group, which represents the businesses and Network Rail, are planning to abolish rules that enable trains to become classed as on “time” even when they're as much as 10 mins late with a destination.

train lourneyAt present commuter trains are officially late as long as they don't reach their final destination within a few minutes of their scheduled arrival, a standard which 89 percent of all trains meet despite widespread frustration among rail users at the frequency of delays.

Virgin Trains has recently updated the way it publishes punctuality figures so services are only classed as being punctually should they reach their destination within 59 seconds with the scheduled arrival time.

Virgin Trains has already updated the way it publishes punctuality figures so services are just classed to be punctually should they reach their destination within 59 seconds of the scheduled arrival time. CREDIT: PA

But under the new proposed system - giving trains a window of just 59 seconds to arrive - only 64 percent of trains will make the grade, which rail bosses believe will force companies to boost their services.

The move comes at any given time when more than Fifty percent of all rail journeys arrive late on some routes due to frequent industrial action and staff shortages.

, thousands and thousands of rail commuters will probably be instructed to endure lengthy delays and cancellations throughout the southeast due to union-lead strike action.

Poor performing companies be also named in official figures, which skillfully developed believe will assist you to restore confidence within the system.

Packed Commuter Trains From Clapham Junction.

Packed Commuter Trains From Clapham Junction. CREDIT: GLENN COPUS

Penalties could also fall on Network Rail, which operates the rail infrastructure, if it's found to have led to delays.

Widely likely to be implemented within 3 years, it's hoped the newest measures will help restore confidence inside the rail industry amid growing concerns among rail executives that staff are trying to play the system within unofficial strike action.

In accordance with one rail executive, conductors and drivers around the Southern network are increasingly feigning illness, with sick leave rising by almost 40 % inside a month.

Beneath the new proposals, companies will obtain a weighting system which pays greater credit to busy trains operating at peak times.

The brand new measure could also be written into future franchise deals involving the government and rail companies, and is set to be agreed using the Department forTransport and the Office of Road and Rail later this coming year.